The young guns have no fear.
In the case of Ludvig berg and Sam Bennett. Both are 23-year-old PGA Tour newcomers who have exploded onto the professional stage.
They both shot 7-under-65s on Thursday in the opening round of the 2023 Rocket Mortgage Classic, which was held at Detroit Golf Club. After the morning wave, they are T-2. Aberg and Bennett, both recent PGA Tour University grads who finished first and fifth respectively, took advantage of the early professional opportunities they were afforded.
Bennett expressed his gratitude for being able to obtain some exemptions. “I don’t know how many special temp points I have to earn. “I’m just having some fun.”
Bennett plays this week under a sponsorship exemption. This is his fourth consecutive start since becoming a professional. The Travelers Championship was his only exception. He missed the cut every week except last. He is fully exempt from the Korn Ferry Tour until the end of the season and trying to accumulate enough points to get a Tour Card next year.
Aberg made history by becoming the first PGA Tour U grad to receive a Tour Card after graduating from college. Aberg has placed in the top 25 of both his professional starts and Thursday’s 65 was his third in four rounds.
Aberg had a 9-under round after a chipped in eagle. However, he made consecutive bogeys at the end of his round.
Take the lead with style
Ludvig Aberg chips in to get to 9-under @RocketClassic pic.twitter.com/MMd3qBdS9Q
— PGA TOUR June 29th, 2023
Aberg stated, “I’ll say that my driver worked well today.” “I hit many fairways.” “I hit a lot fairways. On a course like this you have many chances to do so. I took advantage of par 5s and a few wedges when coming in.”
Aberg’s experience playing alongside European Ryder Cup Captain Luke Donald was a bonus. Aberg is hoping to earn a captain’s pick in Italy for Marco Simone.
Aberg’s and Bennett’s hot starts are yet another indication that the best amateurs will be able to compete immediately once they become professionals. There is excitement about what lies ahead, even though there will be an adjustment period.
Aberg explained that it would take some time. I think that being comfortable with feeling uncomfortable is important. Overall, it was a lot of fun. “It’s so fun to play and I look forward to playing more.”
